Airlines based outside the EU could
face protectionist measures against them after the European Parliament’s
Transport Committee voted to update the EU’s competition rules on Tuesday (20th
March).

The revision to the
EU’s aviation rules would allow the EU Commission to impose penalties on
third-country airlines before complaints against them have been properly
investigated. The plans would also allow the Commission to sanction airlines
flying under Member States own bilateral aviation deals.

“This revision would enable
uncompetitive European airlines to complain about their rivals and give the EU
Commission the power to punish them before reviewing the evidence. It's right we
crack down on unfair competition but it is outright protectionist to sanction
airlines, who may not be guilty, before their case has been heard.

“Consumers benefit from having
access to airlines from around the world; it drives down prices, provides
greater choice and a better service.

“The EU should not be interfering
in Member States own bilateral aviation agreements. It’s a clear power grab by
the Commission to claim the right to investigate these agreements and impose
penalties on airlines.”

She added: "The UK has a world
class aerospace industry providing thousands of high skilled jobs, with
customers around the globe. If the Commission starts cracking down on our trade
partners unfairly, it jeopardises those trade links, putting British jobs at
risk."